Authentic Pub Co has taken over The White Lyon & Dragon in Worplesdon and Norbiton & Dragon in Kingston.

The Hampton pub operator has now completed its portfolio of venues trading as 'Dragon' sites - popular restaurants that serve Thai cuisine and British classics under one roof

The Dragon format was threatened with extinction when the group was sold last year, prompting fans of the combination restaurant to launch a social media campaign to save it.

Authentic Pub Co founders Simon Bailey and wife Sarah will be keeping the existing staff teams at both pubs, led by managers Carl Elliott in Norbiton and Thom Harland at the White Lyon, along with experienced Thai kitchen and restaurant staff.

Mr Bailey said: “These two pubs are a great fit with our existing estate, both geographically and in trading terms.

"The Norbiton & Dragon is close to our current sites, so the Thai menu gives us a point of difference, while the White Lyon enables us to expand our trading footprint further west into Surrey.

“We’re delighted to be taking over the Dragon concept, which is a proven success.

"Reflecting our name, it allows us to offer authentic Thai food as well as authentic British food, both as part of an Authentic Pub experience.

"That enables us to look at a wider range of pubs as we continue to expand.”

Sharing platters

The bar area at both the Worplesdon and Kingston pubs boast all the hallmarks of a local pub – comfy sofas, rustic wooden floors and a well-stocked bar.

But head through to the restaurant and it’s a different story.

The decor is contemporary with Eastern influences, making for a stylish venue for everything from a casual midweek meal to a birthday celebration.